Few destinations are as desirable as New Zealand. It may be for its impressive landscapes or the warmth of its people. What we know for sure, is that living in New Zealand changes you forever. That’s why in this article we’ll tell you all the things to do in New Zealand for an unforgettable adventure.
From GrowPro, we have sent hundreds of young people to study and work in New Zealand and, based on their experiences, we chose the places that captivated them the most. Are you ready to meet the land of the Lord of the Rings, kiwis, and deep blue lakes? Keep scrolling!
Things to do in New Zealand: 60 Places Not to Be Missed
If you’re looking for a wide range of options both an adventure vacation and a long stay, you’re lucky! We have researched not ten, not twenty but sixty places not to be missed in New Zealand!
1. Hobbiton
If something positioned New Zealand in the top ten of touristic destinations, for sure, it was the trilogy of the Lord of the Rings. It’s one of the most awarded and highest-grossing movies of all time.
Thousands of people visit the country to explore the landscapes that Galdaf, Aragorn, Frodo, and friends travel during the story. Do you remember them?
Well, one of the most emblematic places is Hobbiton in New Zealand, a town of small pit houses in the green hills of a mountain. In the movie’s plot, this is the home of Frodo, Bilbo, Sam, and the other hobbits of the Shire. The movie makers decided to keep the film set as a tourist attraction.
If you’re a fan of the saga, one of the things to do in New Zealand is to visit this fantasy town. You can get here in just over two hours by road if you are in Auckland.
2. Te Papa National Museum
In our list of things to do in New Zealand, the Te Papa National Museum could not be left out.
Located in Wellington, the windy capital of New Zealand, this is the country’s main museum and possibly one of the most interesting in the world. The entrance is free, but for some temporal exhibitions, the entrance is paid.
You can find some curious stuff on this site, like:
- The largest preserved specimen of colossal squid in the world.
- The Earthquake house (Awesome Forces) in which you can experience an earthquake of 6.6 Ritcher scale.
- The general history of New Zealand, with a special interest in Māori culture.
- Or the unique biodiversity of this country thanks to its big collection of animal species.
3. Tongariro National Park
Turquoise lakes, thermal springs, and snowcapped volcanoes constitute the amazing landscape of the Tongariro National Park. This fantastic place has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, not only for its natural beauty but also for the Māori cultural elements that it treasures.
In the center of the park, we can find three active volcanoes of impressive size: Tongariro, Ruapehu, and Ngauruhoe. These and other heights are known as tapus in Māori, which means sacred places.
One of the ways of discovering and enjoying this site in its totality is with Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This mountain route crosses the park in some of its most emblematic points. If you like outdoor physical challenges, you must try it!
And how do you get to this lava kingdom? It will take you about three hours from Tauranga. This little coastal city, also located in the country’s North Island, offers delicious beaches, and excellent academic opportunities for studying and working part-time. Isn’t it cool?
4. Milford Sound
Milford Sound, also known as Piopiotahi, is one of the main tourist destinations to see in New Zealand.
It’s a fiord located on the South Island, whose beauty is indescribable. Actually, many people consider it the eighth wonder of the world due to the incredible landscapes that offers to its visitors.
This fiord is located inside the Fiordland National Park and its length is longer than 15 kilometers inland. The spectacular cliffs that emerge from the waters and rise up to a thousand meters above the surface of the sea are striking.
You can visit Milford Sound in many ways: Tourist cruise ships, trekking routes, canoeing, or even diving, but whatever you do, you’ll like it for sure. If you go during raining season, you’ll see the emergence of waterfalls and cascades everywhere.
5. Kahurangi National Park
This National Park, the second biggest in New Zealand, offers a lot of charm and superb nature. Its geographic diversity is ideal for sports practice, from rock climbing, rafting, and canyoning, to more leisurely activities such as trekking.
In fact, Kahurangi Park has one of the most famous trekking routes in the country: The Heaphy Track. With more than 82 kilometers, this route crosses the park and is usually completed in about four days. Throughout, you can find cabins, water fountains, and other facilities that make it more accessible and easier to handle.
Inside this park, you can see ancient forests, steep mountains, stone arches, caves, and rivers that will take your breath out. It’s not surprising that Peter Jackson decided to film several scenes of the Lord of the Rings saga.
6. Cathedral Cove
If you have seen The Chronicles of Narnia, it’s possible that you’ve heard of Cathedral Cove.
Effectively, it’s the door to Narnia that the Pevensie family crosses at the beginning of “Prince Caspian”. It’s an extraordinary stone arch surrounded by fantastic beaches that can be found in the Coromandel peninsula.
You can get to Cathedral Cove by foot, boat, or kayak. You have to take two things into account. The first is that being one of the most popular things to do in New Zealand, it’s recommended to arrive early. The second is that if you want to cross the arch, you’ll have to do it during low tides.
7. Elephant Rocks
This curious place has also been a filming set for the Narnia saga.
The landscape of Elephant Rocks, with green hills dotted with large gray rocks, is quite unique. These formations derive from a mantle of limestone rock that has been eroded over the centuries until only the hardest parts have remained.
If you see these rocks from a distance, you may well mistake them for a herd of elephants. Taking a walk among them is a classic in the region. The park is also a private grazing area, so you may encounter some friendly sheep for company.
8. Wai-O-Tapu
The Wai-O-Tapu area in New Zealand is an area of intense geothermal activity. On the surface, it is easy to find hot springs, pools, fumaroles, and geysers. All of Wai-O-Tapu is impressive, but don’t get lost! falling into one of its thermal lakes could have fatal consequences – there are areas at over 100ºC!
Among the most curious attractions of Wai-O-Tapu is the Lady Knox geyser, whose waters reach up to 20 meters high. The Champagne Pool is a famous natural pool reminiscent of this alcoholic beverage because of its bubbling waters at more than 70ºC.
9. Auckland Volcanoes
Although Wellington is the capital of New Zealand, Auckland is the most populous city and the economic engine of the country. It’s a city with a very wide cultural and leisure offer and if you want to visit it is advisable to dedicate at least two days to enjoy everything it has to offer.
One of the main curiosities of Auckland is that it’s around a volcanic field with more than 48 craters. Luckily all of them are extinct! From the top of Mount Eden, the highest of them all, you will have a 360° view of the city to get unforgettable shots.
Without a doubt, this is one of the main things to do in New Zealand.
10. Oamaru
In New Zealand, there are several penguin colonies, and the best place to observe them is the coast of Oamaru, on the South Island. Here you will find specially marked places to see the two species of penguins typical of the country: the little blue penguin and the yellow-eyed penguin.
A few minutes from the city, there is the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony. If we want to see the exotic yellow-eyed penguins, one of the rarest species on the planet, a good place is Bushy Beach.
To avoid disappointment, it is good to keep in mind that the number of penguins varies according to the time of day and the time of year. The best time to observe them is shortly before sunset and in the summer months (from December to February in New Zealand, let’s not forget!).
After enjoying the more natural side of Oamaru, it is worth visiting its town, which boasts the largest number of Victorian buildings in New Zealand. You can walk around it in just one hour while admiring the white stone that glistens in the sun on its buildings.
11. Waitomo Caves
The Waitomo Caves will leave you speechless. In addition to the typical stalactites and stalagmites that can be found in caves around the world, they have a spectacular peculiarity: they are luminescent!
This quality is due to their main tenant, the New Zealand glowworm. The chemical glow of this insect illuminates the ceiling like a starry vault. You can contemplate the spectacle by navigating the river that crosses the site!
These caves can be reached in about two hours from Tauranga, and another half hour from Auckland. However, it is an ideal place for a Saturday getaway after a hard week in the city.
12. Franz Josef Glacier
Named after an Austrian emperor, this imposing 12 km glacier on the west coast of the South Island is the ideal choice for an ice age adventure. Along with Fox Glacier, it is one of the most important in the country. It is easily accessible at any time of the year, and we can make the journey on foot or by helicopter.
By foot, from the road that joins the town of the same name, it is only two kilometers of route between mountains and beautiful waterfalls until arriving at the terminal tongue of the glacier. The most sporty ones can make excursions of climbing on the ice.
The helicopter tour is the most advisable option to fully appreciate and enjoy the glacier if you have enough money (the price is around 400 NZD). The flight gives us breathtaking views of this landscape from the heights and allows a two and a half hour trekking at the top of the glacier, where we will find numerous blue caves.
13. Christchurch
Christchurch is the third largest city in New Zealand after Wellington and Auckland.
There are several things to do in this city of great English heritage and for all tastes. We can go to stores and cafes, visit the Canterbury Museum or the neo-gothic Christchurch Cathedral, or stroll along the Avon River, which flows through the center of the city.
It is also worth spending the day in the Orana Wildlife Park, Port Hills, Hagley Park, or Botanical Gardens. No doubt this place is pure magic and, if you think it can’t get any better, add the possibility of whale and dolphin watching in the town of Kaikoura, just a two and a half hour drive to the north.
14. Blue Pools Track
One of the many hidden treasures to see in New Zealand is the Blue Pools Track, natural pools with unreal turquoise waters. You will not be able to resist diving into its crystal-clear depths. So, you better have your swimsuit and towel ready.
Of course, the water temperature is not suitable for people who suffer from cold temperatures. On the other hand, the landscape through which the Makarora River flows, located in a lush beech forest, is also worth exploring separately. It’s a must on our list of things to do in New Zealand!
15. Lake Tekapo
If we were talking about the beauty of the waters of the Blue Pools Track, those of Lake Tekapo are not far behind. It also has that characteristic turquoise color due to the tiny pieces that are suspended in the water of whitish rock ground by the erosive force of the glaciers.
The best time to appreciate the beauty of this lake is in the middle of spring, in November when the purplish lupine flowers sprout. And if this is not beautiful enough, on the shore is the Church of the Good Shepherd, built in 1935 by the pioneer families in the district and much sought after for weddings.
But Lake Tekapo is not only worthwhile for its scenic beauty, but also because it is an important astronomical observation point in New Zealand. Not for nothing, in Māori the name of the lake means “star under the sky”.
Therefore, it is worth spending a night here and stargazing from the astronomical observatory that is not far from the area.
16. Mount Cook
Another of the essential things to do in New Zealand is to visit the Mount Cook National Park. It is home to the highest peak in New Zealand, Mount Cook. It is also known as Aoraki, one of the sons of Father Sky who was turned to stone with his brothers, according to Māori legend.
At 3,754 m high, it is said that it served as training for the mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary before climbing the Himalayas.
From the visitor’s center, several routes can be made. The best of them is the Hooker Valley Track, a three-hour round-trip route that reaches the foothills of the mountain.
You will find hanging bridges and breathtaking viewpoints. In the park you can also enjoy thermal baths, practice snow sports on glaciers such as Tasman and, if you are daring, climb Mount Cook itself!
17. Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a small coastal village located in the South Island of New Zealand. It is a mandatory visit to admire the wildlife, as we proposed with the penguins of Oamaru. This place is known because whales can be sighted from boats that sail several times a day.
Very few places in the world allow us to see and even swim with seals in their natural habitat. Of course, the water is very cold, so it is necessary to wear a wetsuit to swim like one of these mammals.
It is also a place with beautiful mountain scenery, and it has restaurants, cafes, and stores that we can visit, so be sure to visit Kaikoura!
18. Bay of Islands
Located on the North Island, the Bay of Islands is made up of no less than 144 islands! Some of them are uninhabited and others have small towns of historical importance that are worth visiting.
On one of these islands is Russel, where the first European settlement of New Zealand took place, and which was the first capital of the country. On another island, we have Waitangi, where an important peace treaty was signed between the United Kingdom and the Māori leaders.
This document recognized the Māori as equal to the British as subjects of the British crown.
And to delight us at a scenic level we have islands like Kerikeri, where the Rainbow Falls, spectacular waterfalls are located. You can also take a cruise in the beautiful bay or go swimming with the dolphins in its waters.
19. Huka Falls
The Huka Falls are located on the north island of New Zealand, in Taupo. They come from the Waikato River and are a beautiful example of hydraulic power. More than 220,000 liters of water per second fall from them, at a height of eight meters.
Around the falls are several points with panoramic views where you can enjoy all the beauty of the area and take beautiful photographs. You can also follow the development of the Waikato River until you reach the falls in an easy one-hour walk through the native vegetation.
20. Abel Tasman National Park
Although it is the smallest in the country, Abel Tasman National Park deserves a place on the list of things to do in New Zealand.
It bears the name of the first European who arrived in these lands and is in the extreme north of the South Island. There, paradisiacal virgin beaches of golden sand are mixed with lush forests.
If trekking is your thing, there are treks of different lengths that allow you to spend the night in some areas of the park. Along the different routes, you will find small wonders such as Cleopatra’s Pool, white flowering bushes, hanging bridges, and a large number of viewpoints.
If you prefer water sports, you are in the perfect place. Here you will find jet skis, kayaks… Another of the most common activities is to navigate by boat through the different beaches of Abel Tasman since it would be impossible to walk through them in just one day.
But we could not speak of a true natural park if there were no animals in it. In Abel Tasman, we will find a variety of giant kiwis, the wekas, among other local fauna.
21. Lake Wakatipu
This inland lake of the North Island is a true paradise for adventure sports. It’s the third largest lake in New Zealand, although it is the most elongated. Wrapped by a mountain range of irregular shapes, it has Mount Earnslaw (2,819 meters) as its highest peak.
Lake Wakatipu is a key part of the ancient Māori tradition, to the point that the ancestors of the current Māori claimed that a giant monster lived in its waters. Their belief was based on the changing height of the water, which rises and falls every 10 minutes.
22. Lake Taupo
With 616 square kilometers, it’s the largest lake in the country. It is located in the heart of the North Island of New Zealand. Its shores are home to the charming villages of Turangi, Taupo, and Kinloch, dedicated to tourism and trout fishing.
One of the excursions that no one should miss is the one known as the “Volcanic Loop”, a route where you can see Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Tongariro. The Whirinaki and Pureora forest parks will delight hikers.
23. Rotoura
This idyllic city is located in the north of New Zealand and its name is due to the spectacular lake in front of it. It is a city so visited that tourism is the main engine of it. In addition to its set of lakes and its geological activity, it stands out for the legends that surround it.
24. Pancake Rocks
One of the most curious things to do in New Zealand is visiting Pancake Rocks.
Its name comes from the strange shape of the rocks that form this geological set. It is located by the sea, something that makes this place even more special. You can visit this landscape from the small town of Punakaiki, on the South Island of New Zealand.
Its appearance is extremely curious as it looks like a mountain of pancakes typical of any kitchen. Undoubtedly, the Pancake Rocks are the perfect place for spectacular shots, but the way to them is equally beautiful.
25. Mount Taranaki
The most prominent figure within Egmont National Park, located in the northern part of the country, is actually a volcano that has been dormant for several years. If you are a fan of movies about Tolkien’s world, this mountain will be familiar to you. It appears in the movie “The Hobbit”.
In this film adaptation, Mount Taranaki is the famous Lonely Mountain, the home of the dwarves and abode of the dragon Smaug, The Terrible. As you can see, New Zealand is full of magical places like this mountain.
26. Koekohe Beach
This beach is famous throughout the country for the strange rocks embedded in its sands. They are the result of more than sixty million years of climatic and geological changes through which New Zealand has passed.
Their shapes are so smooth and rounded that they look like gigantic eggs of some animal. If you want to have some unique and curious photographs, the “dragon eggs” of Koekohe beach are your best option.
27. Wānaka
A striking place to see in New Zealand for its beauty is Lake Wānaka. It is located about two hours drive from the city of Queenstown, almost at the southernmost tip of the country.
The town is quite small, but the real attraction is the natural environment that surrounds it. Lake Wānaka looks like a movie postcard that emphasizes the image of a solitary tree. This figure has become so popular that it has its space in social networks and is known as the “Wānaka Tree”.
28. Lake Pukaki
As you may have seen after reading this article about places to visit in New Zealand, this country is full of beautiful lakes. Undoubtedly, Lake Pukaki is one of the most beautiful of all.
This beautiful lake is located just two hours from Wanaka, the town we told you about earlier, and its waters, which are tinged with an unreal turquoise color, will take your breath away. The color of this lake is due to the minerals in the surrounding soil.
29. Karekare Falls
Very close to the largest city in New Zealand, Auckland, are the Karekare Falls. Its fall of thirty meters makes it a very special and impressive place. It is an authentic spectacle of nature that you can find just fifty minutes from Auckland.
30. Cape Reinga
The northernmost point of the country that is within reach of man. As you can imagine, in such a special place there are many details that you can’t miss. One of them is the effect produced when the currents coming from the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea meet.
In addition to this spectacle, you will witness one of the symbols of Māori culture which is a century-old tree that according to mythology welcomes the spirits of the dead who want to go to the afterlife.
31. Nelson
The city of Nelson is located on the South Island and is known for being the sunniest place in the oceanic country. The landscape is dreamlike and, in the region, you can do all kinds of activities. From hiking, cycling, or kayaking, to sunbathing on the surrounding beaches.
In addition, it’s the access to three must-see parks in New Zealand.
Kahurangi National Park, Abel Tasman National Park, and Nelson Lakes National Park are three of the options you can visit if you happen to take a tour of Nelson.
Not only that, but it’s also a region brimming with art and culture. It’s largely noted for its crafts, art studios and galleries, and festivals, such as the Nelson Festival of the Arts.
32. Waiheke Island
If you are going to Auckland and looking for a getaway, Waiheke is ideal for you. The island is just 40 minutes from the city. All you have to do is choose a ferry from the three routes that operate this trip -which offers a total of 48 trips a day- to take a short break from the metropolis.
Once you set foot on the island you can use buses or cabs to get around, or if you have more energy and desire to know, rent a mountain bike or a car. You can take them on the ferry in case you have already hired this service.
In Waiheke, you can witness beautiful views and stroll through the fairs and craft shops, as well as enjoy its white sand beaches such as Oneroa, Onetangi, and Palm Beach, perfect for a cool swim and a picnic on the shores of the Hauraki Gulf.
Also take advantage of the trails that surround the island, which cross some native forests and cliffs perfect for photography. Another attraction is the tasting of local wine along with a walk through one of the twelve vineyards that exist on the island. A real delight.
33. Marlborough Sounds
To tour these fiords you just have to board a ferry that will take you from Wellington to Picton. You will pass through mountains, small islands, and some lonely beaches. You will also be able to go kayaking or walk through the lush forests. Marlborough Sounds is all about nature.
Three straits make up the area: Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru, and Pelorous, and they are in charge of the Department of Conservation, which also manages 50 other reserves within the park.
One of the other things to do in New Zealand is trekking in Marlborough Sounds, here you can find several trails, with low and high-demand hikes. Five of them can be done by mountain bike. One of the best-known treks is the Queen Charlotte Track, a 70-kilometer trail with lodging and restaurants along the way.
Other popular activities in the area include scuba diving, dolphin and seal watching, and fishing. It is worth noting that 75% of the farmed salmon comes from this fiord. Havelock and Picton are the closest towns to Marlborough Sounds, places where you can start your adventure.
34. Lake Matheson
Imagine taking a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore and suddenly taking the most beautiful photograph you’ve ever had. Well, that’s what you’ll get at Lake Matheson.
Its dark brown hue provides an ideal surface for two of New Zealand’s highest peaks, Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, to be reflected in its mirror-like waters.
Although its main beach is small, it has its attractions. It’s a special place for those who like swimming or trout fishing at sunrise. It is also safe and perfect for a family outing as it has short, well-marked trails.
The lake is home to thousands of native eels that hide in the darkness of the lake. The same is true for the waterfowl, one of the reasons why Lake Matheson became a mahinga kia, i.e. a place to gather food for the Māori people.
35. Queenstown
Many say that Queenstown is the most beautiful place to see in New Zealand. It’s undoubtedly one of the most visited by tourists. It is a small city located on the South Island, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
One of its attractions is Lake Hayes, one of the most photographed lakes in the country. You can also walk the Hollyford Track, a four-day trail, where you will see beautiful landscapes at altitude and enjoy the wild diversity.
In the mountains of Queenstown, activities such as skydiving, bungee jumping, canyon swing, rafting and skiing for the winter.
In addition, the town of the South Island was one of the main protagonists in the filming of The Lord of the Rings, so you can be part of a route where some of the locations of Peter Jackson’s trilogy took place. One of the tours you can take is the Safari of the scenes: Glenorchy. The duration of the trip is four and a half hours.
36. Mokoia Island
This small island of just over 1.35 square kilometers is home to one of New Zealand’s most famous love stories. It tells the legend of Hinemoa and Tutakenai, a beautiful young daughter of an important tribal chief from Rotorua and a young warrior from a tribe on the small island.
Every night, Tutenaki played with his koauau (flute) from his island and Hinemoa sat listening from the other shore. One day, tired of the distance, she tied some empty gourds to her body and floated for four kilometers until she reached the place where her love was.
After that, they were never separated again and the tribes reconciled, accepting the relationship.
Mokoia Island is located in Lake Rotorua, in the North Island, and is considered a sacred place for the Māori people. There it’s possible to take quiet walks, take a dip in the hot springs along the shore, or plant a tree, a characteristic way to commemorate the visit and help replant native species on the island.
37. Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto is located in front of Auckland Bay and over the years has become one of its emblematic monuments.
It is uninhabited and has only a few small houses for those who are concerned about the conservation of the flora and fauna of the place. The volcanic island of only 600 years old is the youngest and largest of the 48 volcanic cones to see in New Zealand.
Here you can take day trips that will take you to see amazing landscapes, such as the blue waters or emerald-colored islands of the Hauraki Gulf. If you are adventurous and more passionate about the water you can take a guided kayak trip by day or night, as you like.
One of the great attractions of the island is its pohutukawa forest, which has beautiful reddish flowering trees that do not exist in many parts of the world. It’s known as “Christmas tree”. The forest located in Rangitoto is the largest in the world and you can see it just 35 minutes by ferry from the center of the city.
38. Motutapu Island
It is located next to Rangitoto Island and is one of the oldest in the Hauraki Gulf, with at least 178 million years of history. Motutapu is part of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park and inside it has a nature reserve called Motutapu Island Recreation Reserve.
To get there you only have to take a ferry from Auckland and in 35 minutes you will be in this paradise free of predators. You can also arrive directly from Rangitoto.
Some of the activities you can do in Motutapu are hiking, for example on the Motutapu Loop Track, or public volunteering to help in the conservation of the ecological restoration of the site. This can be arranged directly with the Motutapu Restoration Trust.
With them, you can organize and go to the island to remove weeds, plant trees, and contribute to keeping the reserve in the best possible condition. In 2011 both islands were declared pest-free wildlife sanctuaries, meaning that there are no animals such as mice, feral cats, hedgehogs, or rabbits that prey on birds and insects.
39. Jelly Tarlton Aquarium
The Auckland Public Aquarium was opened in 1985 by marine archaeologist and diver Kelly Tarlton (1937-1985). It’s located in Okahu Bay, near Mission Bay Beach. Over the years it has become one of the must-see family outings, especially when they include children.
One of the peculiarities of this aquarium is that it’s built with curved tunnels and not flat panels like the classic aquariums. This allows visitors to feel closer to the aquatic world and enjoy the more than thirty exhibits in the place.
40. Pukekura Park
It’s located in New Plymouth and was inaugurated in 1876. The park is a botanical wonder of 52 hectares where you can enjoy a variety of activities. The usual is to visit a small zoo, play sports in the rugby fields, or simply stroll through the gardens, cross bridges, and rest in front of water fountains.
In addition, inside the park, you will find the Bowl of Brooklands, an amphitheater where national and international shows are performed. Between December and February, you will be able to witness the TSB Festival of Lights, a light show that takes place every year for free, where different colors are used to highlight the trees that make up the park.
41. Hooker Valley Track
It’s certainly a different ride. This time you won’t be walking through lush green forests, but through rocky, ice-covered terrain.
The Hooker Valley Track is one of the most popular and beautiful trails in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. The nearest towns are Aoraki/Mount Cook Village and Twizel.
The trail, which starts at the White Horse Hill campsite and is 10 kilometers long, will take you to Hooker Valley and Hooker River. Along the way, you will see a variety of wildflowers, such as celmisia, which often grows on limestone.
You will also have the opportunity to see the kea, the world’s only alpine parrot, which is unfortunately endangered.
Their song, of a particular softness and delicacy, is usually heard along the way, being the best company during the walk. It’s recommended to do it at dawn since seeing the sun’s rays appearing over the Southern Alps is one of the best spectacles in the area.
42. White Island
It’s one of the most active volcanoes in New Zealand and has accumulated continuous activity for the past 150,000 years. In other words, it has been in volcanic gas release practically since it was discovered by James Cook in 1769. It last erupted in 2013.
The island is located 50 kilometers off the east coast of the North Island, in the Bay of Plenty. It corresponds only to the peak of a mountain that is much larger and at least 70% is submerged under the seabed.
The best way to see White Island is from the heights, where you can appreciate its circular shape and the fumarole that has been active all these years. However, this trip is expensive since it can only be done by helicopter.
Another way to get closer is through a guided ferry tour or scientific research. Although the island is privately owned, every year more than 10,000 people arrive for excursions on volcanic soil, so put on your helmet, and let’s not wait any longer!
43. Paihia
It is the main tourist center of the Bay of Islands. Swimming with dolphins, kayaking along the coast, or picnicking on secluded and intimate beaches are just some of the activities you can do in the 144 islands that make up the bay.
In addition, you can find restaurants and a variety of stores, which will make your stay much more comfortable.
You can walk or drive to Haruru Falls, stroll through the ancient Waipoua Kauri forest, or take a cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock, at the tip of Cape Brett. Any option will leave you hallucinating because that’s one of the sensations that this place provokes.
You can also learn about the history of New Zealand since this area is one of the places that marked the beginning of New Zealand as a country, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. If you want to learn about that, don’t miss a walk through the Treaty House located in Waitangi.
Undoubtedly, it’s a place you have to see in New Zealand.
44. Te Awamutu Space Centre
The Te Awamutu Space Centre, located in Waikato, is a museum and activity center for space and astronomy fans. The site surprises, teaches, and entertains. Here you can enjoy interactive exhibits, and virtual reality projections, use lunar and solar telescopes, and learn everything that has always intrigued you about the universe.
Many of the visits that take place in this center belong to school groups, however, this is a tour for all audiences. Even the most uninterested in astronomy will be delighted with it. You can attend the center on an open day, reserve seats at a private session, or at special events held throughout the year.
45. Pelorus River
The Pelorus River is quite well known among visitors to the oceanic country and one of the reasons is because it served as the setting for the movie The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. During the filming, the dwarves float down the river in barrels, fleeing from the Black Forest. Thus, Peter Jackson chose the Pelorus Bridge to carry out this scene.
But the river, located in the Marlborough region, is not only known for this. It’s also a perfect area for camping, hiking, or kayaking down the calm waters. During the tour along the riverbank, you can see different species of native birds such as the native pigeon (kekeru), the tui, the small Māori honeycreeper, or the Māori fantail.
46. Treble Cone
It’s the largest ski area in the South Island and has the longest vertical climb in the Queenstown district, reaching 1960 meters. Treble Cone is famous for its extensive slopes and legendary runs. A perfect place for lovers of snow and extreme sports.
For those who are not experts in sports such as skiing or snowboarding, Treble Cone has a free lift and a slope. They will also be able to make guided walks with which they will be able to contemplate the best snowy landscapes to see in New Zealand.
Treble Cone is located just 30 minutes from Wanaka. It is open from 9 am to 4 pm during the winter season and operates only from June through September.
47. Hamilton Gardens
While not a natural wonder, Hamilton Gardens is a must-see if you go to New Zealand. It is a public park located in the south of Hamilton. The gardens in total occupy 54 hectares in which it is possible to find open fields, labyrinths, a lake, a nursery, a convention center, and the Hamilton East Cemetery.
The biggest attraction of the Waikato region receives every year more than one million people to see the Japanese, modern, Italian, and Indian gardens. There is also a sector dedicated to Māori culture, flora and fauna.
Hamilton Gardens is a perfect alternative to visit before or after Hobbiton.
Both places are close to each other, so if you visit the land of the hobbits, you can’t miss a walk through the beautiful Hamilton Gardens. If you love photography, both places will be perfect for you.
48. Skydiving Taupo Lake
If you like extreme sports you can’t miss the opportunity to fly like a bird in a free fall of thousands of meters. One of the best-known skydiving companies in New Zealand is Taupo Tandem Skydiving who offer four jump options: 2700, 3700, 4500, and 5600 meters high.
From the top, you will be able to see the coast of the North Island, the shores of Taupo Lake, or the snow-capped volcanoes of Tongariro National Park. A view that few lucky ones have the opportunity to contemplate.
The best of all is that during the trip to the mainland, you have nothing to worry about because you are in the hands of great experts who will make sure you arrive safe and sound at the bottom. So, more reason to enjoy yourself up there, if you dare to go up.
49. Tiritiri Matangi Islands
Tiritiri Matangi Island is located 30 kilometers northeast of Auckland and is one of the most important conservation projects to see in New Zealand. 60% of its surface is covered by forest and the other 40% by grassland, which has been achieved mainly by the eradication of predatory mammals.
The variety of birds present on the island is very high, so you always will be accompanied by different songs. Some are endangered and others exist only in New Zealand. In total 71 species can be observed on or near the island, such as the kokako or the korora, the little blue penguin.
50. Hot Water Beach
Hot Water Beach is a beach where mineral water emerges from the depth of the earth through the sand of the beach, forming a natural hot spring. The key is to start digging two hours before or after low tide, which you should do with a shovel. But don’t worry, you can also rent one at the local store.
But not everything is warm water, since the cold tide attracts the attention of all surf lovers due to the good breaks in the sea. However, the tide is very strong for swimming, so it’s not recommended to enter if it’s not for this type of sport, which by the way should also be done with total caution.
The beach is located between Tairua and Whitianga, on the Coromandel Peninsula. It is only a five-minute drive from another of the bays to see in New Zealand, Cathedral Cove.
51. Owharoa Falls
This series of three waterfalls is located a few meters from Waitawheta Road, in front of the entrance of The Falls Retreat, a prestigious lodging and dining place. Owharoa Falls is very popular with locals who often come to swim and cool off under the falls.
The waterfalls are beautiful. A blanket of white water cascades over a staircase of rocks and makes for a postcard-perfect backdrop. However, it’s advisable not to try to climb the waterfalls due to the amount of moss that forms under them, which could be very dangerous and cause a serious accident.
Owharoa Falls is approximately a two-hour drive from Auckland.
52. The Redwoods Treewalk
This place is in Rotorua, a city located in the North Island.
The Redwoods Treewalk is a 700-meter walkway that is made up of a series of 28 suspension bridges that cross 27 redwood trees that are at least 117 years old each. But it’s not only the trees and bridges that are the attraction of this ecological walkway, it also stands out for its beauty.
Visiting the forest, one of the natural reserves in the oceanic country, is one of the main things to do in New Zealand. That’s why it’s a mandatory stop if you decide to go to Rotorua. The greatest spectacle is at night when a series of lamps are lit throughout the forest, creating an intimate and unique atmosphere that you can only see in a place like this.
53. TranzAlpine
TranzAlpine is considered one of the best train journeys in the world. The 223-kilometer journey runs from Christchurch to Greymouth, one way, and takes less than five hours.
The train is operated by The Great Journeys of New Zealand and is fully equipped with roof windows to appreciate the beauty of the Southern Alps, GPS with trip commentary in five languages, high-definition video, a cafeteria, and heating or air conditioning depending on passenger requirements.
It’s also quiet and smooth in its ride.
TranzAlpine operates every day of the year and offers a unique experience on a journey of beautiful and unforgettable scenery. You’ll travel west across the green Canterbury Plains, passing through the river valleys of the Waimakariri River.
You’ll take a short break at Arthur Pass and then climb through the Otira Tunnel to the west coast of southern New Zealand and arrive in Greymouth, where you will have plenty of sights to see, such as the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.
54. Karamea
One of Karamea’s great virtues is its isolation. The town, located in the northeast of the South Island, is noted for its secluded beaches, basins, waterfalls, river mouths, and impressive granite and limestone formations.
However, its main attraction is that it seems an intimate and intimate haven for vacationing.
All kinds of activities are available in Karamea, from hiking and kayaking to sport caving. See the Oparara Basin, hike the Charming Creek Walkway, take a helicopter ride over lush forests and vast rivers, and do rafting or mountain biking. All in one place.
In addition, the town borders the Kahurangi National Park, one of its official entrances, so you’ll also have access to other hiking trails such as the renowned Heaphy Track, one of the best hikes in New Zealand.
55. Whanganui Journey
If you are an adventure lover and you are passing through New Zealand, you must make this trip. An unforgettable trip along the Whanganui River that lasts several days and where you won’t need your legs to make the journey.
In a total of five days, you will enjoy bush-covered valleys, native forests along the riverbank, and a variety of birds flying overhead or taking a cool dip in the Māori waters.
Tour Whanganui National Park without the need to walk. However, at some point, you can leave your canoe and follow a trail to see The Bridge to Nowhere, built in 1936 to improve access for soldiers from the Mangapurua Valley to their settlement.
Whanganui is one of the largest rivers in the country, with a length of 290 kilometers, and is the longest navigable. It is also the first river in the world to obtain the same legal rights as a person.
The Māori people demanded that it be respected as a person because they consider it as one of their ancestors, and so it was. Nowadays if someone damages or harms the river it will be taken as if it had been done directly to the Māori people and will bring its consequences.
56. Cornwall Park
Cornwall Park is a public park located in the heart of Auckland, on the North Island.
It’s composed of different gardens and was designed for the enjoyment and comfort of the public. It has picnic areas, trees hundreds of years old, a great variety of flowers, and an avenue so that everyone can walk through it with peace of mind.
In the center of the park, you can climb to the top of a volcanic cone called One Tree Hill Domain. The donor of the park, Sir John Logan Campbell was buried precisely in that place where an obelisk was also built.
This park is the perfect place for an escape from the vortex of the city, a rural space where in addition to vegetation you will be able to access the farm that is in full operation. In addition, Cornwall Park has various sports and recreational facilities.
Cornwall Park is open every day from 7 am until sunset – the gates indicate the exact closing time depending on the season – making it perfect for spending the day close to nature. Ideal for family outings or school visits.
57. The Old Ghost Road
It’s the longest cycle path in New Zealand and is only a 45-minute drive from Westport. It was built on an old gold mining route between the towns of Buller Gorge and Seddonville on the west coast, and designed in such a way that adventurous cyclists can set off at their leisure.
The Old Ghost Road takes a total of two to three days to complete depending on the individual’s pace, and while anyone can do it, it is recommended that only experienced mountain bikers undertake this ride.
The trail can be ridden in either direction, however, one of the recommendations is to ride from the Lyell Historic Preserve to the north.
This 85-kilometer route has become one of the most important cycling routes in the world, so if you are a fan of two wheels and have seen New Zealand, you cannot miss the opportunity to experience this adventure.
58. Doubtful Sound
Doubtful Sound is another of New Zealand’s natural wonders. The fiord is the deepest and second longest in the country after Milford Sound and is called by the locals the “Sound of Silence”.
The steep mountains that accompany it are covered by virgin forests and from time to time it is possible to see penguins, dolphins, or sea lions. You just have to keep your eyes open.
Although it is not possible to reach this fiord by road, there are dozens of tour companies that offer cruises to the fiord, departing from Manapouri, a town located 20 kilometers south of Te Anau.
When you get there, you can enjoy a walk along the shore, a kayak tour, or the spray of any of its waterfalls, such as Browne or Helena.
59. Coromandel
Coromandel is one of the most visited destinations in New Zealand for vacations as it is a perfect escape from the city. Its white sand beaches and native forests generate a climate of tranquility difficult to find in the city.
You can go fishing, diving or you can take a boat ride at sunset, or visit some of the craft fairs that are installed along the coast. Any of the options will be of full enjoyment because this peninsula breathes calm.
You can also visit Cathedral Cove, famous for appearing in one of the Chronicles of Narnia movies, or Hot Water Beach, the beach where you can enjoy natural hot springs. Both are postcards you will not forget.
60. Larnach Castle
Larnach Castle is the only standing castle to see in New Zealand. It is located on top of a hill in Dunedin, Otago Peninsula. It was built in 1874 by the politician, businessman, and philanthropist William Larnach, who sought to build for his wife a mansion that had a perfect view of the entire city.
The castle is beautiful, so it is worth taking a couple of hours to walk around it. Details in windows, furniture, and the roof make this place well valued by those who visit it. Its gardens also stand out, especially because they are very well maintained. Visits cost $11 for the gardens and $20 to visit the interior of the castle.
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